Free tax help available

February 1, 2013

Free tax help and e-filing is available for taxpayers with low and middle icome, with special attention to those age 60 and older. The assistance, via the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, is offered at a variety of locations in the Eastern Panhandle.

Started in 1968 by four volunteers, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide is now the nation's largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation program. In 2012, over 35,000 volunteers worked at nearly 6,000 Tax-Aide community-based sites in all 60 states and the District of Columbia. They helped 2.6 million people navigate complicated tax codes, receive proper credits and deductions and file federal, state and local tax returns.

Several sites will open in the Panhandle, including three in Jefferson County. The South Jefferson Public library, 49 Church Street, Summit Point, will offer assistance Feb. 7-April 13 on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Time slots are by appointment only. Call 304-725-1043. The Ranson Senior Center, 103 W. 5th Ave., Ranson, will be open Feb. 6-April 13 on Wednesdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. These time slots are also by appointment only. Call 304-725-4044. The Ranson Civic Center will offer walk-in assistance each Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 2 through April. 14. No appoitment is needed to receive assistance at this location. Also open for assistance is the Martinsburg Public Library, 101 W. King Street with walk in hours from 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays and 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays from Feb. 2 to April 13. Note the library is closed Feb. 18.